Elementary Science Methods: Week #3

  

Elementary Science Methods 2: Week #3

    This week in lab we began by revisiting the question we have been working on the past few weeks. That question is What affects a rider's speed down a slide. We investigated the variables that affect the rider's speed. Some of these variables affect slide slope, rider's height, rider's weight, clothing, rider position, etc. Our group chose to study how rain or shine affects the rider's speed. Our question we were trying to answer was If the slide is wet, how does it affect the speed of the rider going down the slide. Shown in the photos we tested the slide by first measuring the height, length, and distance. Then we did four trial runs on dry and wet slides and found the averages. We found the average for dry conditions was 2.47 seconds and 0.99 m/s. For the wet conditions, we found the average speed to be 2.06 seconds and 1.19 seconds. In conclusion, if the slide is wet, the speed of the rider going down the slide is faster than if the slide is dry. This activity was super engaging connecting our learning in class and applying it to the activity. 

    This week in the lecture we continued to study investigating slides with the factors that can affect the rider's speed. Some things that can affect the rider's speed include steepness, rider weight, rider clothing, weather conditions, etc. From there we discussed gravity and why the force pulls a rider down a slide. We began studying the difference between speed and velocity. Force is a push or pull on an object and affects the direction the object will go in. Understanding motion can help us better understand the force that gravity can have on different objects. 

    This week the press book focused on the force lens on motion. I learned and refreshed my memory on Newton's First Law of Motion. I found it helpful at the beginning of the press book to it refresh the reader on the definition of force. As well as reemphasizing that all objects are always in motion even when they are not moving. I think there was nothing I particularly needed more information on because everything was explained thoroughly. I also do not have any questions or concerns.